Move over, veterans, there’s a new kid on the block! Brazilian sensation Diogo Moreira has officially set the timing screens alight at the Chang International Circuit in the Buriram Test 2026.
Clocking a blistering 1:29.920, Moreira was the standout rookie, finishing just 1.252s off the top spot and nearly a full second ahead of fellow high-profile rookie Toprak Razgatlioglu.
Speaking at the media scrum, Moreira was buzzing after a day where he proved the Honda RC213V might just have some teeth after all.
“I am super happy! Compared from yesterday to this morning, we improved a lot,” Moreira said with a confident grin. “I think we are almost ready to start the season. We need to keep learning to ride the bike, but we are much closer than before.”
While many rookies struggle with the explosive “soft tire” runs, Moreira thrived. He delivered a “super good” lap time in the morning that held up throughout the afternoon heat.
The paddock is already whispering about the Rookie of the Year battle. Today, the Brazilian “Samba” was much louder than the Turkish “Sultan.”
Despite being over 0.8s faster than Toprak, Moreira remained humble when asked about leading the “Rookie” standings. “For sure [Rookie of the Year] is one of the targets. We are in a good way now, but Toprak will arrive. He is a World Champion, so let’s see during the season.”
Moreira is already looking ahead to the season opener next week. His secret weapon? Finding a fast wheel to follow. “The race weekend is more normal. I can improve more because you can follow someone and I think it will be even better!”
If Moreira can find a “tow” from the likes of Marc Marquez or Bagnaia next week, don’t be surprised to see this Brazilian star fighting for a top-10 finish on his debut!
Credit Photo : MotoGP
